Playground canopy contractors are responsible for designing and installing shade structures to complement your playgrounds, parks, or other outdoor recreation areas. They use durable fabrics that reduce the surface temperature of an area, block harmful UV rays, and provide excellent weather protection. They also create shade structures that are low maintenance and code compliant with regard to fire safety, structural integrity, and more.
The right shade structure can increase a playground’s utility and help to make it a more inclusive space. Some children and adults are unable to go on the playground without the proper shading, such as those with sun allergies, conditions such as autism or cerebral palsy, or those who take medications that can cause sun poisoning or overheating.
To ensure that the shade you install is suitable for your playground, consider working with experienced and professional playground canopy contractors. They can recommend a variety of shade options and explain how each will benefit your facilities.
One of the most popular shades for playgrounds is a full cantilever shade, which provides extensive coverage with only two poles. It’s perfect for large playgrounds, and it has a peaked roofline for added aesthetic appeal. This type of shade is available in a variety of dimensions, including 10 feet by 20 feet and 20 feet by 30 feet. It can also have an entry height of eight or 10 feet.
Another option is the three-point sail shade, which offers a more compact structure with only a few poles. It’s ideal for small to medium-sized playgrounds and is available in coverage dimensions of 20 feet by 25 feet or 20 feet by 30 feet, with entry heights of 8 or 10 feet. It can be used in windy areas but is best suited for locations that experience moderate to high winds.
If your institution has limited budget restrictions, you might choose to buy a smaller attached shade cover for the playground equipment instead of a free-standing shade structure. However, this is a poor choice that will not offer the same level of protection as a shade structure that is completely separate from the equipment. Besides, this type of shade can trap dirt and debris underneath the covering, which can accelerate its degrading due to environmental pressures.
It’s important to find the right shade contractor who can create a structure that will be easy to clean and maintain for your facility’s staff. Otherwise, the shade will quickly become an eyesore and an inconvenience to everyone who uses it. In addition, a clogged canopy will be an open invitation to damaging microorganisms like mildew and mold.